JP5617361B2 - Game machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a gaming machine, and more particularly, to a gaming machine (a ball game machine) such as a pachinko gaming machine such as a so-called seven machine, feathers, or a right-handed machine, or a combination type gaming machine (arranged ball gaming machine).

  In pachinko machines, the fluctuation time reduction function and the opening time extension function are activated after the end of the big hit game, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is shortened, the frequency of the normal symbol being stopped and displayed in the symbol increases, and the normal electric role In many cases, the opening time of a starting port (so-called electric chew) constituted by an object is extended (see, for example, Patent Document 1). As described above, when the variable time shortening function and the opening time extending function are started, the opening frequency (number of times of opening, opening time) of the starting port is significantly improved compared to the normal state. It becomes. In the “opening frequency improvement state”, the game ball can be played without reducing the number of game balls on hand by increasing the frequency of entering the game balls into the start opening (electrical chew). For this reason, the “opening frequency improvement state” is also referred to as “electric chew support state” or “electric support state”.

JP-A-9-206438

  However, in the gaming machine configured as described above, when focusing on the opening frequency of the starting opening (electrical chew), the opening frequency of the starting opening (electrical chow) is higher than usual, and the starting opening (electrical chow) Since there are only two types of states of “no electric support”, the release frequency of which is a normal frequency, there is a problem that the game is monotonous and lacks game play.

  Therefore, in view of the above points, the present invention has an object to provide new game playability with respect to the opening frequency of the start opening, and to improve game entertainment.

In order to achieve the above object, the gaming machine of the present invention includes a normal symbol success / failure determination execution means for executing a normal symbol success / failure determination triggered by detection of a game ball flowing down on the game board surface,
When the normal symbol success / failure determination is executed, the normal symbol is variably displayed on the normal symbol display unit. If the result of the normal symbol success / failure determination is a win, normal symbol display control means for stopping and displaying the normal symbol as a hit normal symbol;
Playing ball and ball entrance difficult the normal state, the gaming ball is changeable into a ball entrance easy open, if the said normal symbol at normal symbol display unit stopped and displayed in the per normal symbol, the A starting port that changes to the open state over an hour ;
Special symbol success / failure determination execution means for executing special symbol success / failure determination triggered by the game ball entering the start opening;
When the special symbol success / failure determination is executed, the special symbol display unit variably displays the special symbol.If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is out, the special symbol is removed and the special symbol is stopped and displayed. When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit, special symbol display control means for stopping and displaying the special symbol at the big hit special symbol;
When the special symbol is stopped and displayed at the jackpot special symbol, a jackpot game executing means for starting a jackpot game advantageous to the player;
A first counting means for counting a first predetermined value by counting the number of times the special symbol is changed and displayed following the end of the jackpot game;
Second counting means for counting a second predetermined value smaller than the first predetermined value by counting the number of times the special symbol is changed and displayed following the end of the jackpot game;
An opening time extension means for setting the opening time of the start port to a second time longer than the first time until the first predetermined value is counted by the first counting means after the end of the big hit game;
Normal symbol normal variation means for variably displaying the normal symbol with a variation time for normal variation when counting by the first counting unit and counting by the second counting unit are not performed;
Normal symbol special variation means for variably displaying the normal symbol in a variation time for special variation until the second predetermined value is counted by the second counting device after the big hit game is ended;
After the counting by the second counting means is completed, the normal symbol is shortened to be shorter than the normal fluctuation fluctuation time and the special fluctuation fluctuation time until the first predetermined value is counted by the first counting means. And a normal symbol shortening variation means for varying display for a variation time for use,
When the counting by the first counting means and the counting by the second counting means are not performed, it becomes a big hit, and when the big hit game is started, the counting by the first counting means and the first The counting by the two counting means is started from the initial value,
The counting by the first counting means and the counting by the second counting means are performed, and the count value by the second counting means becomes a big hit before reaching the second predetermined value, and the big hit game is started. After the jackpot game is over, the counting by the second counting means is started continuously from the count value by the second counting means at the start time of the jackpot game, and the first counting means Counting from the initial value,
When the counting by the first counting means is performed and the count value by the second counting means reaches the second predetermined value, a big hit is made, and when the big hit game is started, after the big hit game is finished , it said that the second without performing counting by the counting means and the counting by the first counting means is started from the initial value, setting the reduced variation for varying time without setting the variable time for special variation It is characterized by.

  According to the present invention, there are three stages with different opening frequencies of the start opening, that is, the first stage (opening of the start opening) in which the normal symbol is displayed in a variable time for normal change and the opening time of the start opening is not extended. The frequency is the lowest level), and the normal symbol is displayed in the fluctuation time for special fluctuation and the opening time of the start port is extended in the second stage (the opening frequency of the start port is intermediate level), the normal symbol is shortened and the fluctuation time for fluctuation The third stage (the opening frequency of the starting opening is the highest level) can be created in which the display is variably displayed and the opening time of the starting opening is extended. As a result, the opening time of the start port is extended by the end of the big hit game, so that the opening frequency of the start port is improved from the lowest level to the intermediate level, and when the special change period ends, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol By being shortened, it is possible to provide a new game characteristic that the opening frequency of the start opening becomes the highest level, and it is possible to improve the game entertainment.

  In other words, after the big hit game is over, the number of executions of the special symbol variation display in the state where the opening frequency of the opening is improved from the lowest level to the intermediate level (special variation period) is based on the count result of the second counting means. When the predetermined value is reached, the opening frequency of the start port is improved from the intermediate level to the highest level. As described above, after the one big hit game is finished, the number of times of the special symbol change display becomes the second predetermined value without the next big hit game being started. It can be grasped that the condition for making it hold, so-called "ceiling arrival". Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a novel game such as “the opening frequency of the start opening reaches the highest level when reaching the ceiling”.

The “ first predetermined value” and the “second predetermined value” may both be “fixed values” or “variable values”. In the case of “variable value”, for example, a plurality of values to be set as “first predetermined value” and “second predetermined value” are prepared in advance, and various conditions are satisfied (the power-on of the gaming machine, the specific value) The value set as the “first predetermined value” or the “second predetermined value” can be determined by a lottery or the like each time when the special winning symbol stop display, the execution of the big hit game, or the like) is performed. The counting by the first counting means and the second counting means may be either the “subtraction method” or the “addition method”.

  The first counting means and the second counting means may be configured such that one of the two counters counts the first predetermined value and the other counter counts the second predetermined value. The form which counts the 1st predetermined value and the 2nd predetermined value can be illustrated. Among these, in the latter form, one counter, means for determining that the count value of the counter has reached the first predetermined value, and determination that the count value of the counter has become the second predetermined value The "first counting means" and the "second counting means" can be configured by the means for performing.

  In addition, the probability (probability per ordinary symbol) that the determination result (ordinary symbol determination result) by the normal symbol validity determination execution unit is a hit may be constant (fixed) or may vary. However, when the probability per normal symbol is constant (fixed), it is preferable to set so that the result of the normal symbol success / failure determination is a hit with a relatively high probability. On the other hand, when the probability per ordinary symbol varies, it is preferable that at least two kinds of probabilities, “low probability” and “high probability”, can be set as the probability per ordinary symbol (including a normal symbol probability variation means). In this case, in the above-mentioned “first stage (starting port opening frequency is the lowest level)”, the probability per normal symbol is set to “low probability”, and the above “second stage (starting port opening frequency is an intermediate level). ) ”And“ the third stage (the opening frequency of the start opening is the highest level) ”, it is preferable to set the probability per normal symbol to“ high probability ”.

  Further, in the gaming machine of the present invention, the special variation variation time is set to a variation time longer than the normal variation variation time.

  In this way, when the special variation period is started after the big hit game is finished, the normal symbol is displayed in accordance with the variation time (variation time for special variation) longer than the normal variation variation time, and then the special variation is displayed. When the period ends, the normal symbol is variably displayed according to a variation time (short variation variation time) that is shorter than the variation time for normal variation. Therefore, the frequency of normal symbol fluctuation display results is the highest during “shortening fluctuation (shortening fluctuation period)” where normal symbols fluctuate and display with the fluctuation time for short fluctuations. It becomes lower in the order of “normal fluctuation (normal fluctuation period)” for displaying fluctuations in time, and “special fluctuation (special fluctuation period)” for displaying normal symbols in a special fluctuation time. On the other hand, the opening time of the start port is not extended (normal time) before the big hit game is executed (normal time), but at the time of special change and short time change after the big hit game is over It is extended (it is assumed to be extended time).

  From the above, focusing on the opening frequency of the opening (opening time, number of opening, etc.), the frequency of normal symbol fluctuation display results is not high or low, and the opening time of the starting port is low. Unusual “normal fluctuation” can be considered as “the stage where the opening frequency of opening is low (the stage where the degree of advantage for the player is low)”, and although the frequency of the normal symbol fluctuation display result is low, the start “Special change” when the opening time of the mouth is extended can be considered as “the stage where the opening frequency of the opening is intermediate (the stage where the player's advantage is intermediate)”, and the result of the fluctuation display of normal symbols Can be regarded as “a stage where the opening frequency of opening of the start opening is high (a stage where the degree of advantage for the player is high)”.

  As a result, between the first stage where the opening frequency of the starting port is low (the opening frequency of the starting port is the lowest level) and the third stage where the opening frequency of the starting port is high (the opening frequency of the starting port is the highest level). That is, the second stage in which the opening frequency of the start opening is higher than the first stage and lower than the third stage (the opening frequency of the start opening is an intermediate level) can be effectively created. In addition, the difference between each of the first stage, the second stage, and the third stage can be clarified for the player. In particular, the variation time for special variation is the variation time of other normal symbols (variation for normal variation). Since it is longer than the time and the variation time for shortening variation), it is possible to effectively impress the player in the second stage (the opening frequency of the start port is an intermediate level).

Further, in the gaming machine of the present invention, when the counting by the first counting means and the counting by the second counting means are not performed, it becomes a big hit, and when the big hit game is started, after the big hit game is finished, Counting by the first counting means and counting by the second counting means are started from an initial value ,
The counting by the first counting means and the counting by the second counting means are performed, and the count value by the second counting means becomes a big hit before reaching the second predetermined value, and the big hit game is started. If, after of the jackpot game end, counted by the second counting means, continuously from the count value by the second counting means at the start of the jackpot gaming, while being started, the first counting The counting by means starts from the initial value,
When the counting by the first counting means is performed and the count value by the second counting means reaches the second predetermined value, a big hit is made, and when the big hit game is started, after the big hit game is finished Is characterized in that the variation time for special variation is not set because the counting by the first counting means starts from an initial value .

  In this way, after the first big hit game (so-called “first win”) started in a state where the counting by the first counting means and the counting by the second counting means are not performed, the counting by the second counting means is performed. When the next big hit game is started before the numerical value reaches the second predetermined value (before the counting by the second counting means is finished), the count value by the second counting means at that time is the end of the big hit game. It will be succeeded later. For this reason, after the end of the next big hit game started before the count value by the second count means reaches the second predetermined value, a period during which the count by the second count means (special variation period) is so-called. It becomes shorter than the special fluctuation period after the first hit. As a result, as the game progresses, the special variation period ends in a short period, so that the so-called ceiling arrival can be accelerated, the shortened variation of the normal symbol is started early, and the opening frequency of the start opening is increased. Realize the highest level of playability.

  According to the above-described configuration of the present invention, it is possible to provide new game playability with respect to the opening frequency of the start opening, and to improve game entertainment.

1 is a front view of a gaming machine according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is a front view of a game board. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of an electronic controller. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of a main job. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal symbol fluctuation | variation display related process. It is a flowchart which shows a normal electric accessory game process. It is a flowchart which shows the first half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows the second half part of a special symbol game process. It is a flowchart which shows a special symbol fluctuation display related process. It is a flowchart which shows a fluctuation pattern table distribution process. It is a flowchart which shows a big hit game process. It is a flowchart which shows processing at the time of big hit game end. It is a flowchart which shows the process at the time of the big hit game end of 2nd Example.

(First embodiment)
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a gaming machine) of a type (so-called “seven machine type”) in which a jackpot symbol is stopped and displayed in response to the end of the special symbol variation display, and the jackpot game is triggered by this. Examples to which the present invention is applied will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a front view of the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the front portion of the gaming machine 1 includes an outer frame 2, a middle frame 3, a front frame 4, an upper plate portion 5, a lower plate portion 6, a locking device 9, a game board 20, and the like. In FIG. 1, detailed illustration of the game board 20 is omitted. Further, the middle frame 3 is not clearly shown in FIG. 1 because the front frame 4 and the like are arranged on the front side.

  The outer frame 2 is a wooden plate-like body assembled into a substantially rectangular frame shape. The middle frame 3 is made of plastic and constitutes the main body frame of the gaming machine 1. The middle frame 3 is fitted inside the outer frame 2 and is pivotally supported at the left end so as to be openable and closable with respect to the outer frame 2. The middle frame 3 includes a frame body portion that occupies about 2/3 of the upper side and a lower plate portion that occupies about 1/3 of the lower side. The game board 20 and the front frame 4 are provided so as to overlap each other on the front side of the frame body part, and the upper plate part 5 and the lower plate part 6 are provided on the front side of the lower plate part. Note that the game board 20 is detachably attached to the frame body portion (the middle frame 3). The lower plate portion is provided with a launcher unit (not shown) constituting launching means for launching a game ball onto the game board 20, and a ball feeder (not shown) for supplying the game ball to the launcher unit.

  The front frame 4 is disposed on the front side of the middle frame 3 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The front frame 4 is made of plastic, and a circular opening 4a is formed in order to make the board surface of the game board 20 arranged on the back side visible. A substantially rectangular transparent plate frame (not shown) including a transparent plate such as a glass plate corresponding to the opening 4a is attached to the back surface of the front frame 4. Lamps such as LEDs (not shown) are provided around the game board 20 in the front frame 4. These lamps are turned on / off or blinking according to the progress of the game in order to enhance the game effect.

  The upper plate part 5 is provided on the lower side of the front frame 4 and is supported at the left end of the middle frame 3 so as to be opened and closed. The upper dish part 5 includes a dish outer edge part 5a, a discharge port 5b for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1, and a ball release button 5c for discharging the game balls of the upper dish part 5 to the lower dish part 6. It has. An effect button 5d, a ball lending button 5e, and the like are provided on the upper surface of the dish outer edge 5a.

  The lower plate part 6 is provided below the upper plate part 5. A discharge port 6 a for discharging game balls from the inside of the gaming machine 1 to the lower plate portion 6 is provided in the approximate center of the lower plate portion 6. An ashtray 7 is provided at the left end of the lower dish portion 6. At the right end of the lower plate part 6, a launching handle 8 is provided for a player to operate a launching device unit (not shown). The firing handle 8 is provided with a touch switch 8a as contact detection means for detecting that the player is touching. On the left side surface of the launch handle 8, a launch stop switch 8b that is operated by the player to temporarily stop the launch of the game ball is disposed.

  The locking device 9 is provided at the center of the right end of the middle frame 3 and is used to lock the front frame 4 when it is closed.

  Further, the gaming machine 1 is provided with speakers 10a to 10d for generating sound effects and the like corresponding to the gaming state. The speakers 10 a to 10 d are composed of upper speakers 10 a and 10 b provided at the upper part of the gaming machine 1 and lower speakers 10 c and 10 d provided at the lower part of the gaming machine 1. Further, a prepaid card unit 13 (CR unit) is mounted on the left side of the gaming machine 1.

  Next, the surface structure of the game board 20 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a front view of the game board 20. The game board 20 is a substantially rectangular wooden plate-like body and is detachably attached to the middle frame 3, and its back side is covered by a back mechanism board (not shown).

  As shown in FIG. 2, a substantially circular game area 21 is formed on the game board 20 by an outer rail 22 and an inner rail 23 provided on the surface (board surface) of the game board 20. In the game area 21, the central device 24, the normal symbol operating gate 27, the big winning device 33, the starting port 28, the left winning ports 34 and 35, the right winning ports 36 and 37, the first decorative member 50, and the second decorative member. A gaming device such as 60 is arranged. In addition, a number of obstacle nails are arranged in the game area 21 in consideration of the position balance with each gaming device.

  The central device (center accessory) 24 is arranged at a substantially central portion of the game area 21 and includes an effect display device 25 on the inner side (inner peripheral side). The effect display device 25 is disposed at a substantially central portion of the game area 21. In the present embodiment, a liquid crystal display device is used as the effect display device 25, and various effect displays are performed in the display area of the effect display device 25. In the present embodiment, the effect display device 25 is arranged in the approximate center of the game area 21 (game board 20), but the effect display device 25 is a liquid crystal display device having a size that occupies substantially the entire game area 21. And the liquid crystal display device may be arranged on the back side of the game board 20 (so-called “entire liquid crystal type”). In this case, it is preferable to use a game board 20 formed of a transparent plastic resin such as acrylic, and a liquid crystal display having a size that occupies substantially the entire game area 21 on the back side of such a transparent game board. By arranging the device (effect display device 25), the player can visually recognize the display content of the liquid crystal display device (effect display device 25) through the transparent game board.

  The big prize device 33 is arranged below the central device 24 in the game area 21, the first decoration device 50 is arranged on the left side of the big prize device 33 in the game area 21, and the second decoration device 60 is arranged in the game area 21. It is arranged on the right side of the big winning device 33. The decoration devices 50 and 60 constitute a so-called side decoration. Further, the first winning device 34 is integrated with the left winning holes 34 and 35, and the second winning device 60 is integrated with the right winning ports 36 and 37.

  The normal symbol operating gate 27 is provided on the left side of the central device 24. Inside the normal symbol operation gate 27, a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27s (see FIG. 3) for detecting the passage of the game ball flowing down on the game board is provided. When the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, the normal symbol starts to fluctuate.

  The start port 28 is provided below the central position of the central device 24. The start port 28 is a first start port provided on the upper side, in which two entrance ports formed with a game ball receiving port for receiving a game ball flowing down on the surface of the game board 20 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. 28a and a second start port 28b provided on the lower side.

  The first starting port 28a is configured as a fixed starting port in which the size of the game ball receiving port does not change and the possibility of entering the game ball is constant, so that the game ball can always enter the game. It has become. On the other hand, the second start port 28b is a so-called tulip type and has a pair of wing pieces on the left and right, and the upper end gap between the pair of wing pieces serves as a game ball receiving port. The pair of wing pieces are each opened and closed by tilting in the left-right direction. With this opening and closing action, the second start port 28b is the size of the game ball receiving port of the pair of wing pieces. It is configured as a variable starter that changes. The second start port 28b is in an open state with a high probability of entering by opening a pair of blade pieces, and in a normal state with a low possibility of entering by closing a pair of blade pieces (incoming balls) Including an impossible closed state). When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed as a combination of symbols, the pair of wing pieces are opened to expand the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b, and the second start port 28b is a normal electric accessory. Function as. The opening and closing of the second start port 28b is controlled by the main control unit 200.

  Inside the start opening 28, a start opening detection switch 28s (see FIG. 3) for detecting the entrance of a game ball into the first start opening 28a or the second start opening 28b and a pair of wing pieces are operated. And a start-up solenoid 28c (see FIG. 3). When the pair of wing pieces are opened to the left and right, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is enlarged from the normal time, and the second start port 28b has a possibility of entering a game ball. It becomes an open state that becomes larger. On the other hand, when the pair of wing pieces are erected, the size of the game ball receiving port of the second start port 28b is slightly larger than the diameter of the game ball (one game ball can pass). The second start port 28b is in a normal state (closed state) in which the possibility of entering a game ball is reduced (or entry is impossible). When the game ball enters one of the first start port 28a and the second start port 28b, a special symbol described later starts to fluctuate. In the following description, the description that “the game ball enters the start port 28” means that the game ball enters the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b unless otherwise specified. means.

  The big prize device 33 is disposed below the start port 28. Here, the special winning device 33 includes a special winning opening 33a opened in a belt shape, an opening / closing plate 33b for opening / closing the special winning opening 33a, and a large winning opening solenoid 33c (for operating the opening / closing plate 33b). 3) and an incoming ball detection switch 33s (see FIG. 3) for detecting an incoming game ball.

  A left winning opening 34 and 35 and a right winning opening 36 and 37 are provided on the upper left side and the upper right side of the big winning device 33. Each of these winning openings is provided with a winning opening entering detection switch (not shown).

  The first decorative member 50 is provided with a plurality of LEDs, and a combination of these LEDs constitutes a normal symbol display portion 51, a general symbol hold display portion 52, and a special symbol hold display portion 53. Similarly, the second decorative member 60 is provided with a plurality of LEDs, and a special symbol display unit 61 is configured by a combination of these LEDs.

  The normal symbol display part 51 is comprised from one LED, and a normal symbol is displayed by this LED. In the normal symbol display unit 51, the normal symbol variation display and stop display are performed. In the normal symbol display unit 51, the normal symbol starts to change when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, and after a predetermined time has passed, the normal symbol hits and stops display in the normal symbol display mode or the dismissed normal symbol display mode. Is done. When the normal symbol is stopped and displayed in the preset normal symbol display mode, the second start port 28b is opened according to a predetermined opening pattern. A plurality of opening patterns of the second start port 28b are set. When the opening time extending function for extending the opening time of the second start port 28b is not in operation (normal time), a short opening pattern in which a first opening time (for example, 0.2 seconds) is set is set and opened. When the time extension function is activated, a long-time opening pattern in which a second opening time (for example, 5 seconds) longer than the first opening time is set is set. The open time extension function will be described later.

  In the present embodiment, as the variation time of the normal symbol, the variation time for normal variation (30 seconds in this embodiment), the variation time for shortening variation shorter than the variation time for normal variation (1 second in this embodiment), A special fluctuation time (120 seconds in this embodiment) longer than the fluctuation time is provided. Then, when the normal symbol success / failure determination is executed, a specific variation time is set according to the gaming state. Specifically, during the special fluctuation period after the big hit game ends, a special fluctuation time (120 seconds) is set. The fluctuation time (1 second) is set, and the fluctuation time for normal fluctuation (30 seconds) is selected while the fluctuation time shortening function is not in operation. The special variation period and variation time shortening function will be described later.

  In the present embodiment, a random number for determining normal symbol success / failure is prepared, and this random number for determining normal symbol determination is acquired when the game ball passes through the normal symbol operating gate 27, and the second start port 28b. Is used to determine whether or not to operate a normal symbol (whether or not to make it open). A hit value is set in advance for the random number for normal symbol success / failure determination, and a hit is determined when the random number for normal symbol success / failure determination obtained at the timing when the game ball passes the normal symbol operation gate 27 matches the winning value. Is done. The normal symbol success / failure determination is performed in the low probability state using the low probability normal symbol success / failure determination table set with a small hit value while the variable time reduction function and the open time extension function described later are not in operation, and the variable time reduction function When the open time extension function is in operation, it is performed in a high-probability state using a high-probability normal symbol success / failure determination table in which the number (type) of hits is higher than the low-probability normal symbol success / failure determination table (normal symbol probability variation means) ). In this embodiment, the winning probability of the normal symbol success / failure determination is “2/89” in the low probability state (when the variable time reduction function and the open time extension function are not in operation), and the high probability state (the variable time reduction function and “86/89” is set in the operation of the open time extension function). When it is determined that the normal symbol is determined to be a win, the normal symbol that is stopped and displayed on the normal symbol display unit 51 is determined as the display mode of the normal symbol. On the other hand, when it is determined to be out (when the acquired normal symbol success / failure random number does not match the winning value), the normal symbol stopped and displayed in the normal symbol display unit 51 is determined as the display mode of the out of normal symbol. Is done.

  Here, normal symbol holding will be described. The normal symbol hold display section 52 displays the normal symbol hold number, and the number of game balls that have passed through the normal symbol operation gate 27 can be held up to the maximum hold number (four in this embodiment). Each time the next normal symbol win / fail determination is made and the normal symbol variation display is started, the number of unstarted times (the number of reservations) is consumed, and the number of normal symbol reservations is decreased by one. The general-purpose hold display unit 52 includes two LEDs, and can display the number of holds with an upper limit of four by combining turning off, lighting, and blinking of the two LEDs. Along with the holding of the normal symbol, a random number for determining whether or not the normal symbol is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200.

  The determination of whether or not the normal symbol is determined, the determination of the stop symbol of the normal symbol, the setting of the variation pattern of the normal symbol, the holding of the normal symbol and the holding of the normal symbol are performed by the main control unit 200 described later. For this reason, the main control unit 200 corresponds to the normal symbol appropriateness determination execution means and the normal symbol display control means of the present invention.

  Next, the special symbol will be described. The special symbol display unit 61 is composed of seven LEDs, and special symbols are displayed by these LEDs. Each LED constituting the special symbol display unit 61 can be turned on and off, and a plurality of special symbol display modes can be displayed by a combination of turning on and off the LEDs. And among the special symbol combinations displayed by the seven LEDs, a specific combination is set as a big hit symbol (big hit special symbol), and other than the big hit symbol is set as an out symbol (out special symbol) . In this embodiment, the special symbol variation display is performed by blinking display in which each LED is repeatedly turned on and off.

  Next, when the game ball enters the start port 28 (the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b), the special symbol starts to fluctuate in the special symbol display unit 61, and the special symbol is a big hit after a predetermined time elapses. A symbol variation game that is stopped and displayed in a symbol or out-of-sequence symbol is performed.

  In the present embodiment, a special symbol success / failure random number is provided that is acquired when a game ball enters the start port 28 and is used to determine whether or not to execute a winning game (special game). Yes. In addition, a big hit type determination random number (big hit symbol determination random number) is provided for determining the type of big hit (normal big hit with a ball, normal big hit without a ball, a probable big hit with a ball, a probable big hit without a ball). . As the game ball enters the start port 28, a special symbol success / failure determination random number and a jackpot type determination random number are acquired. The acquired special symbol success / failure determination random number and the jackpot type determination random number are stored in the main control unit 200. Is stored as a hold in a predetermined area (hold storage area) of the RAM.

  Here, the holding of special symbols will be described. The special symbol hold display unit 53 is composed of two LEDs, and can display the number of holds with an upper limit of four by combining turning off, turning on, and blinking of the two LEDs.

  The number of game balls that have entered the starting port 28 can be reserved until the maximum number of reservations (four in this embodiment) is reached as the number of special symbol reservations. The special symbol hold number is acquired every time a game ball enters the start port 28 and is stored in a predetermined area (hold storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (special symbol success / failure). This corresponds to the number of random numbers for determination and random numbers for determining special symbols. In this embodiment, as the game ball enters the start port 28, the special symbol determination random number is also acquired together with the special symbol success / failure determination random number. Therefore, the special symbol holding number is also stored in the number of jackpot type determination random numbers stored. Equivalent to. The number of special symbol reservations is digested each time a special symbol success / failure determination is performed and the variation display of the special symbol is started, and decreases by one. The special symbol holding storage and holding digest are performed by the main control unit 200 described later.

  The special symbol success / failure determination random number is set with a hit value for success / failure determination, and the special symbol success / failure random number acquired at the timing when the game ball enters the first start port 28a or the second start port 28b. Is determined to be a big hit if it matches the big hit value (hit winning value). The special symbol success / failure determination is performed when the special symbol starts the variable display.

  When the special symbol success / failure determination random number coincides with the winning value, it is determined to be a big hit, and the special symbol that is stopped and displayed in the special symbol display unit 61 is determined as the big winning symbol. On the other hand, if the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not a big hit (decided to the big hit lottery), the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is out of date, and the special symbol that is stopped and displayed in the special symbol display unit 61 is determined to be a lost symbol. The

  The special symbol is configured to change and display according to a predetermined change pattern. This variation pattern specifies the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence (effect content) of the reach effect or the notice effect in the variation, and multiple types of variation patterns are associated with the random number for determining the variation pattern. Included in the pattern table. The special symbol variation pattern is selected by lottery from the variation pattern table when the special symbol success / failure determination is executed and the variation display of the special symbol is started.

  A plurality of special symbol variation pattern tables are prepared, and each is selected and used according to the gaming state. For these multiple variation pattern tables, the variation pattern table for special variation selected when the special variation period is set, the probability variation function selected when the probability variation function and the variation time shortening function are operating. Selected when the fluctuation pattern table and fluctuation time reduction function are operating.Selected when the fluctuation pattern table for time reduction and the special fluctuation period are not set and the probability fluctuation function and the fluctuation time reduction function are not operating. The normal variation pattern table is included. The relationship of the variation time length of the special symbol specified by the variation pattern included in each variation pattern table is “variation pattern for probability variation = variation pattern for time reduction” <variation pattern for special variation <normal variation pattern . The variation time of the special symbol in the variation pattern for special variation and the normal variation pattern may be the same.

  Further, the determination of whether or not the special symbol is determined, the determination of the variation pattern of the special symbol, the determination of the stop symbol of the special symbol, the variation display of the special symbol and the stop display (symbol variation game) are performed by the main control unit 200 described later Has been. Therefore, the main control unit 200 corresponds to the special symbol success / failure determination execution means and special symbol display control means of the present invention.

  Next, the jackpot game (special game) will be described. When the special symbol stopped and displayed in the special symbol display unit 61 is the above-mentioned jackpot symbol (when the result of the special symbol determination is a big hit), the main control unit 200 as a jackpot game execution means gives the player A relatively advantageous jackpot game (special game) is started. The jackpot game is started by setting the jackpot game flag to ON. The big hit game is to give a player a profit (prize ball) with respect to entering the game ball into the big prize opening 33a by operating the big prize device 33, in other words, by opening and closing the big prize opening 33a a plurality of times. It is. The jackpot game is realized by repeatedly executing a jackpot game process described later.

  During the big hit game (during special game), the big prize device 33 is operated, and a predetermined number of prize balls (for example, 15 for one pitch) according to the number of game balls entered into the big prize opening 33a. Award balls). Specifically, the big winning opening / closing operation for continuously operating the big winning device 33 and switching the big winning opening 33a between the open state and the closed state is continuously performed a plurality of times by the start of the big hit game. With the start of the operation of the special winning device 33, the special winning opening 33a is opened. This open state is ended when a predetermined end condition is established, and the open special winning opening 33a is closed. As a predetermined ending condition, when the opening time of the big winning opening 33a reaches a specified time (26 seconds in this embodiment) or the number of game balls that have entered the opened large winning opening 33a is a predetermined number (this implementation) In the example, it is possible to reach 10).

  In the case where one round game is performed from the start to the end of the open state of the big winning opening 33a, the big hit game is ended when a predetermined number of round games are performed. In the grand prize winning device 33, after the opening of the big prize winning opening 33a is completed, that is, after a predetermined interval time has elapsed since the big winning prize opening 33a is closed, the big winning prize opening 33a is again opened, and the next round game Starts. The opening / closing operation of the grand prize winning port 33a in which one round is from the start to the end of the big winning port 33a is repeated until a predetermined maximum number of continuous rounds (15 rounds in this embodiment) is completed.

  In the gaming machine of the present embodiment, after the big hit game is over, a privilege game (so-called time-short game and probability variable game) in which the variable time shortening function, the open time extending function, and the probability varying function are activated is started. The variable time shortening function, the opening time extending function, and the probability varying function operate by setting the fluctuation shortening flag, the opening extension flag, and the probability changing flag to ON, respectively. The fluctuation time shortening function, the open time extension function, and the probability fluctuation function are realized by the control of the main control unit 200.

  If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit, after the big hit game is finished, the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function for extending the open time of the second start port 28b are started, and the short-time game is started. The The short-time game is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. The variation time shortening function includes a normal diagram variation time shortening function for shortening the variation time of the normal symbol and a special figure variation time shortening function for shortening the variation time of the special symbol. By the operation of the opening time extension function, the opening time of the second start port 28b is extended from the first opening time (for example, 0.2 seconds) to the second opening time (for example, 5 seconds). As a result, the frequency of entering the game ball into the second start port 28b is higher than that at normal time (when the opening extension function is not activated). Further, as described above, the normal symbol success / failure determination is performed in a high probability state (winning probability is “86/89”) in accordance with the operation of the variation time shortening function and the opening time extension function. The operating period of the opening time extension function and the fluctuation time reduction function is set until the next big hit game is started or until the number of changes in the special symbol after the big hit game ends reaches a predetermined number. The operation period of the open time extension function or the like (the number of times the special symbol has changed) is set using a fluctuation shortening counter. In this embodiment, “10,000” is set in the fluctuation shortening counter, and the operation period of the opening time extension function or the like is substantially started until the next big hit game is started. The fluctuation shortening counter is decremented by 1 every time the special symbol is variably displayed. The fluctuation shortening counter corresponds to the first counting means of the present invention, and the value set in the fluctuation shortening counter corresponds to the first predetermined value of the present invention.

  In the present embodiment, a special variation period is provided after the big hit game ends. During this special variation period, the variation time for special variation (120 seconds) is set as the variation time of the normal symbol in preference to the variation time shortening function, and the variation pattern for special variation is set as the variation pattern of the special symbol. It is set and special variation of normal symbol and special symbol is performed. For this reason, in this embodiment, the variation shortening flag is set to ON when the big hit game ends, but the shortening variation of the special symbol and the normal symbol is performed after the elapse of the special variation period.

  The special variation period starts with the end of the big hit game, and ends when the number of variations of the special symbol reaches a predetermined number. The special fluctuation period (number of special symbol fluctuations) is set using a special fluctuation counter. In this embodiment, each value of “500”, “200”, “100”, “70”, “50”, “30” is set in the special variation counter, and each time the special symbol is variably displayed. 1 is subtracted. The special fluctuation period is set by setting the special fluctuation flag to ON when the special fluctuation counter exceeds zero. The special variation counter corresponds to the second counting means of the present invention, and the value set in the special variation counter corresponds to the second predetermined value of the present invention.

  In this embodiment, it is set so that the fluctuation shortening counter (operation period of the opening time extension function and the fluctuation time shortening function)> the special fluctuation counter (special fluctuation period). Therefore, when the special fluctuation counter reaches zero (when the special fluctuation period ends), the fluctuation reduction counter remains, and until the fluctuation reduction counter reaches zero after the special fluctuation period ends (after the passage). Or, until the next big hit game is started, the short game at the normal time will be played. In other words, until the big hit game ends, the normal figure normal fluctuation game in which the normal symbol changes normally (normal time fluctuation: 30 seconds fluctuation in this embodiment) is performed, and the big hit game ends and the special fluctuation period elapses. Is a special variation game with a special variation (long-term variation: 120 seconds variation in this example), and after the special variation period has elapsed, the normal symbol is shortened until the variation time reduction function is finished. A short-time game is performed that fluctuates (short-time fluctuation: 1 second fluctuation in this embodiment).

  Here, in the normal figure normal variation game in which the opening time extension function does not operate, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is “30 seconds”, the winning probability of the normal symbol success / failure determination is “2/89”, and the opening time of the second start port 28b Is set to “0.2 seconds”, whereas in the special figure variation game in which the opening time extension function is activated, the fluctuation time of the normal symbol is “120 seconds”, and the winning probability of the normal symbol success / failure determination is “ 86/89 "and the opening time of the second start port 28b are set to" 5 seconds ", respectively. For this reason, in the special figure special variation game, the frequency that the fluctuation time of the normal symbol becomes longer and the result of the fluctuation display of the normal symbol is obtained compared with the normal variation normal game (frequency at which the winning symbol or the off symbol is stopped and displayed) Although it is lower, the frequency of winning the normal symbol success / failure determination is higher than that of the normal symbol normal variation game, and when the normal symbol success / failure determination is won, the opening time of the second start port 28b is 10 times that of the normal symbol normal variation game. Since it becomes longer than this, when paying attention to the opening frequency (number of times of opening, opening time) of the second starting port 28b, the opening frequency of the second starting port 28b is higher in the normal special variation game than in the normal normal variation game. .

  In addition, in the short-time game with normal symbols, where the opening time extension function is activated and normal symbols are shortened, the normal symbol variation time is “1 second”, the normal symbol success / failure determination win probability is “86/89”, 2 The opening time of the start port 28b is set to “5 seconds”, respectively. For this reason, in the normal game short game, the winning probability of the normal symbol success / failure determination and the opening time of the second start port 28b when winning the normal symbol success / failure determination is the same as the special game special variation game, Since the variation time of the normal symbol becomes shorter than the game and the frequency of the normal symbol variation display result is obtained (the frequency at which the winning symbol or the off symbol is stopped and displayed) is increased, the opening frequency of the second start port 28b ( When attention is paid to the number of times of opening, the opening time), the opening frequency of the second start port 28b is higher in the short-time game than in the special-purpose special game.

  In view of the above, in this embodiment, the opening frequency of the second start port 28b increases in the order of normal map normal variable game <general map special variable game <normal map short game, and the three stages of the second start port 28b open. It is possible to create gaming states with different frequencies. In other words, the opening frequency of the second start port 28b is “minimum level” in the normal variation game, and the opening frequency of the second start port 28b is “intermediate level” in the special variation game. 2 The opening frequency of the start port 28b becomes the “highest level”. Further, in the present embodiment, the normal symbol normal variation game is performed with a normal symbol success / failure determination in a low probability state, and the normal symbol special variation game and the normal time short game are performed with a normal symbol success / failure determination in a high probability state. For this reason, the opening frequency of the second start port 28b can be effectively increased in the ordinary special variation game and the ordinary short-time game as compared with the ordinary normal variation game.

  Since the frequency of entering the game ball into the second start port 28b (the frequency with which the special symbol is held) is proportional to the frequency of opening the second start port 28b, it is normal that the second start port 28b has the lowest open frequency. In variable games, the number of special symbols held is difficult to increase, and in the special special variable games in which the opening frequency of the second start port 28b is at an intermediate level, every time the normal symbol change time elapses (in this embodiment, In a game state in which the number of special symbols held is likely to increase every 120 seconds), and the number of special symbols held in the short game with the highest opening frequency of the second start port 28b is easily set to the upper limit (this embodiment) In this case, the game state reaches 4). That is, in the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, after the big hit game ends, when the opening frequency of the second start port 28b becomes an intermediate level and the special fluctuation counter becomes zero (the fluctuation shortening counter remains at this time). ) Has reached the so-called ceiling, and the opening frequency of the second start port 28b becomes the highest level.

  The above-described variation shortening counter and special variation counter setting, opening time extension function operation, normal symbol shortening variation processing, and normal symbol special variation processing are performed by the main control unit 200. For this reason, the main control unit 200 corresponds to the counter means, opening time extension means, normal symbol normal fluctuation means, normal symbol special fluctuation means, and normal symbol shortening fluctuation means of the present invention.

  If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit and the jackpot type is “probable big hit”, the probability fluctuation function will start in addition to the variable time reduction function and the open time extension function after the big hit game ends. The probability change game is started. The probability variation game is realized by the control of the main control unit 200. In this probability variation game, the probability that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit, that is, the probability that the special symbol is stopped and displayed with the big hit symbol is changed (improved). The probability variation function (special symbol probability variation means) is activated.

  While the probability variation function is in operation, the probability that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a jackpot is improved by increasing the jackpot value for the determination of success / failure. Specifically, a normal probability success / failure determination table and a high probability success / failure determination table in which the number (type) of jackpot values is larger than the normal probability success / failure determination table are prepared. During normal games (when the probability variation function is inactive), the normal probability determination table is used to determine whether or not, and during probability change games (when the probability variation function is in operation), a high probability determination table is used. Make a pass / fail decision. The probability variation function operates after the jackpot game is over until the next jackpot game is started. In this embodiment, the operation period of the probability variation function is set until the next jackpot game is started.

  In the gaming machine 1 of the present embodiment, a symbol change effect is performed on the effect display device 25 in association with a special symbol change game performed using the special symbol display unit 61. As the symbol variation effect, for example, a variation display effect for variably displaying an effect symbol composed of numeric symbols in conjunction with a variation display of the special symbol on the special symbol display unit 61, a reach effect performed during the variation display of the effect symbol, etc. Is mentioned. Note that there are a plurality of types of effect contents, and effect image data is stored in the ROM of the effect display control unit 280.

  Here, the symbol variation effect realized under the control of the sub-control unit 260 and the effect display control unit 280 described later will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, an effect symbol display unit 25 a for displaying effect symbols is provided in the display area of the effect display device 25. The effect symbol of the effect symbol display unit 25a is displayed in conjunction with the special symbol of the special symbol display unit 61. Moreover, the site | part except the effect design display part 25a among the display screens of the effect display apparatus 25 is a background display area in which various background designs including a character, a figure, a symbol, a character, etc. are displayed. As described above, the effect display device 25 is arranged in the center of the game board 20 (game area 21), so that the player usually displays contents (particularly effect symbols) in the display area of the effect display device 25. The game will be played with attention.

  In this embodiment, a three-digit number symbol consisting of “1” to “9” is used as the effect symbol, and the effect symbol display unit 25a displays a right symbol display area in which the right symbol is displayed, and a middle symbol. The middle symbol display area and the left symbol display area where the left symbol is displayed are composed of three symbol display areas. Each symbol display area has a symbol variation direction set in a direction substantially orthogonal to the arrangement direction of these display areas, in this case, in the vertical direction (vertical direction).

  When the special symbol is displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 by the start of the special symbol variation display, and the special symbol is stopped and displayed on either the big hit symbol or the off symbol symbol, the special symbol is a special symbol. The display is stopped with a symbol corresponding to the stop symbol. As a result, the result of the special symbol success / failure determination ("big hit" or "off") is notified by the effect symbol. In this embodiment, among the stop symbols of the production symbols, the combination of even symbols with the same three digits corresponds to the “ordinary jackpot symbol” with the special symbol, and the combination of odd symbols with the same three digits is the “probable big hit symbol with the special symbol. ", And a combination of symbols other than these corresponds to the special symbol" off symbol ".

  The symbol variation effects such as the variation display effect and the reach effect of the effect symbols are sub-based on the variation start command (variation pattern designation command and stop information designation command) transmitted from the main control unit 200 when the variation of the special symbol starts. It is configured to be performed under the control of the control unit 260. That is, the setting of the effect content performed in the symbol variation effect and the execution of the symbol variation effect are performed by the sub-control unit 260. Further, the effect content (effect pattern) of the symbol variation effect is set at the start of the symbol variation effect based on the determination result of the special symbol.

  Here, the variation pattern designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates the variation pattern of the special symbol. Specifically, the variation time of the special symbol and the presence / absence of the reach effect The contents of the production are shown. The main control unit 200 determines a variation pattern of the special symbol at random (by random number lottery) according to the determination result of the special symbol. Then, based on the special symbol variation pattern determined by the main control unit 200, the sub-control unit 260 determines an effect design effect pattern (design variation effect effect pattern) displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a. Further, the stop information designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260 indicates a special symbol stop symbol, and the main control unit 200 determines whether the special symbol is determined according to the result of the special symbol determination. A stop symbol is determined at random (by random number lottery). Then, based on the stop information designation command indicating the stop symbol of the special symbol determined by the main control unit 200, the sub control unit 260 determines the stop symbol of the effect symbol to be stopped and displayed on the effect symbol display unit 25a.

  Next, the electronic control device of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the electronic control device.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the electronic control device includes a main control unit 200 and sub-control units 230, 260, and 280 connected to the main control unit 200. The sub control unit includes a payout control unit (prize ball control unit) 230, a sub control unit 260, and an effect display control unit 280. The main control unit 200 includes a main control board 200a, and the sub control units 230, 260, and 280 include a payout control board 230a, a sub control board 260a, and an effect display control board 280a, respectively, as peripheral control boards. Each of these control boards and other boards (a power board, a relay board, a drive board, a decoration board, an amplifier board, an effect button board, etc.) are arranged on the back side of the gaming machine 1.

  Each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280 is supplied with power from a main power source (not shown). Further, when the power is turned on, a system reset signal is transmitted to each control unit 200, 230, 260, 280. Note that the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment includes a backup power supply unit (not shown) that supplies an operating voltage to the main control unit 200 and the payout control unit 230 when the power is turned off. 200 and RAM data of the payout control unit 230 are held.

  The main control unit 200 constitutes a main control unit that controls the progress of the game. The main control unit 200 transmits a command signal (command data) instructing processing contents to each of the sub control units 230 and 260, and each sub control unit 230, Reference numerals 260 and 280 are configured to perform various controls based on the command signal.

  The CPU 200b of the main control board 200a constituting the main control unit 200 includes a CPU core, a built-in RAM (hereinafter simply referred to as RAM), a built-in ROM (hereinafter also simply referred to as ROM), etc., and is stored in the ROM. The control program controls operation of the entire gaming machine 1 (basic progress control of the game) using the RAM as a work area. In addition, the main control unit 200 constitutes a right / wrong determination execution unit that determines whether a special symbol is right or wrong by a right / left determination program stored in the ROM, with the CPU 200b as a main body. Further, the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 determines a specific variation pattern from the variation pattern table of the special symbol stored in the ROM when executing the special symbol validity determination. Note that the control cycle of the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200 of this embodiment is set to 4 ms.

  A board input relay board 201 and a board output relay board 202 are connected to the main controller 200. The board input relay board 201 is connected with a normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27 s, a start opening prize detection switch 28 s, and a big prize opening ball detection switch 33 s so that these signals are input to the main controller 200. It is configured. The board output relay board 202 is connected to a normal symbol display section 51 (one LED), a special symbol display section 61 (seven LEDs), a start opening solenoid 28c, and a big prize opening solenoid 33c. A control signal from the unit 200 is output.

  The payout control board 230a constituting the payout control unit 230 includes a CPU 230b having the same configuration as the CPU 200b of the main control unit 200. To the payout control unit 230, the launch control unit 250, the CR unit 13, and the like are connected. From the main control unit 200 to the payout control unit 230, commands such as a prize ball instruction command for instructing a prize ball payout, a game start permission signal for instructing a game start permission, and various launch control commands are transmitted. Various launch control commands include ball feed permission / prohibition, launch permission / prohibition, game start permission, and the like. When the CPU 230b of the payout control board 230a receives a prize ball instruction command from the main control unit 200, the CPU 230b of a game ball payout device (not shown) provided on the back side of the gaming machine 1 is based on the number of prize balls indicated by the command. By paying off the payout motor, game balls are paid out (prize ball payout) for the designated number of prize balls. In this game ball payout (prize ball payout), game balls stored in a game ball tank (not shown) provided on the upper back side of the gaming machine 1 are supplied to a game ball payout device via a game ball rail (not shown). Then, the supplied game ball is discharged by rotating the payout motor of the game ball payout device.

  A touch switch 8a and a firing stop switch 8b are connected to the firing control unit 250. When the player touches the firing handle 8, a touch signal is input from the touch switch 8a, and the player operates the firing stop switch 8b. By doing (pressing), a firing stop signal is input from the firing stop switch 8b.

  The sub-control unit 260 constitutes sub-control means for controlling various effects executed as the game progresses. The sub-control board 260a has a CPU 260b, a ROM, a RAM (not shown), an input / output port, etc. Circuit components and a sound generator are provided, and are connected to the main controller 200 at the input / output ports. The sub-control unit 260 (CPU 260b) is configured to control effect control using decoration display by various lamps, sound effects output from the speakers 10a to 10d, display of effect symbols by the effect display device 25, and the like. .

  From the main control unit 200 to the sub-control unit 260, various symbol control commands (variation pattern designation command, stop information designation command, symbol stop command, etc.) related to special symbol variation display, various lamp control commands, and various voice control commands Is sent. Various symbol control control commands for instructing display control of the effect symbols are transmitted from the main control unit 200 to the effect display control unit 280 via the sub-control unit 260. An effect display control unit 280 is connected to the sub control unit 260, and display of effect symbols according to various symbol control commands from the main control unit 200 (from the sub control unit 260 to the effect display control unit 280). Various effect display control commands for instructing effect display control for realizing a symbol variation effect) are simultaneously transmitted.

  The effect display control board 280a of the effect display control unit 280 is provided with arithmetic circuit components (not shown) including a CPU 280b, a RAM, a ROM, an input / output port, a VDP (video display processor), and the like. The display unit 25 is connected to the control unit 260, and the effect display device 25 is connected to the effect display control unit 280. Further, the effect display control board 280a is provided with an image ROM (not shown). The image ROM displays image data of effects symbols displayed on the effect display device 25 (such as the image data relating to the above-described symbol variation effects). ) Are stored. The effect display control unit 280 (CPU 280b) is configured to perform drive control of the effect display device 25 (display output processing of symbol data and image data for various effects).

  In addition, various LEDs and lamps 262 are connected to the sub-control unit 260 via a decorative driving board 261, and the speaker 10a that outputs various sounds, sounds, and the like to the amplifier board 263 in accordance with the progress of the game. 10d are connected. Further, the effect button 5 d is connected to the sub-control unit 260 via the effect button board 264. The sub-control unit 260 selects / selects lighting / flashing patterns of various LEDs / lamps based on various commands from the main control unit 200 and the production button 5d (reception of a variation pattern designation command, input of a production button operation signal, etc.). An execution process, a selection / output process of sound effect data output from the speakers 10a to 10d, a selection / execution process of an effect display pattern (effect pattern of a design variation effect) on the effect display device 25, and the like are performed.

  Next, the operation of the gaming machine 1 of this embodiment will be described based on a flowchart. FIG. 4 is an example of a main job performed under the control of the main control unit 200. The main job shown in FIG. 4 is executed by the CPU 200b mounted on the main control board 200a based on a program stored in a ROM (not shown) (an internal ROM of the CPU 200b or a ROM mounted on the main control board 200a). After the power-on process (S100), the game start process (S200), the normal symbol game process (S300), the ordinary electric game game process (S400), the special symbol game process (S500), and the jackpot game process (S600) Each process is repeatedly executed every time the timer is reset (in this embodiment, every 4 ms). The power-off generation process (S50) is a power-on process (S100) when a power failure occurs due to a power failure or the like, the used registers and stack pointers are saved, the payout motor is stopped, and a system reset occurs. It has come to move to.

  The power-on process (S100) is performed when the power is turned on and when power is restored after the power is cut off. When the power is turned on, RAM initialization processing is performed, and when the power is turned off, the game state is restored when the power is turned off. The return setting etc. for making it do is performed. Next, in the game start process (S200), detection of various switch states, update of various random numbers, prize ball payout control, and the like are performed.

  Next, the normal symbol game process (S300) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined by the normal symbol operation gate detection switch 27s whether or not the game ball has passed the normal symbol operation gate 27 (S301). As a result, when it is determined that the game ball does not pass through the normal symbol operation gate 27 (S301: NO), the process proceeds to S304. On the other hand, when it is determined that the game ball has passed the normal symbol operation gate 27 (S301: YES), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol hold number is less than 4 (S302). As a result, when the number of normal symbols held is 4 or more (S302: NO), the process proceeds to S304. On the other hand, when the number of normal symbols held is less than 4 (S302: YES), a normal design success / failure random number is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S303). As a result, the number of normal symbol reservations increases by one.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the second start port 28b is open (S304). If it is determined that the second start port 28b is open (S304: YES), the normal symbol game process When it is determined that the second start port 28b is not open (S304: NO), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol is changing (S305). As a result, when it is determined that the normal symbol is changing (S305: YES), the process proceeds to S309. On the other hand, when it is determined that the normal symbol is not fluctuating (S305: NO), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol is in the stop display time (S306). Here, the stop display time of the normal symbol is a time for determining the normal symbol stopped and displayed. In this embodiment, the stop display time of the normal symbol is “1 second”. If it is determined that it is during the normal symbol stop display time (S306: NO), the process proceeds to S312 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the normal symbol display time (S306: YES). ), It is determined whether or not the number of normal symbol hold is zero (S307).

  As a result, when it is determined that the number of normal symbol hold is zero (S307: YES), the normal symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of normal symbols held is not zero (S307: NO), normal symbol variation display related processing is performed (S308). Here, the normal symbol variation display related processing (S308) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the normal symbol success / failure random numbers acquired and stored in the process of S303 are read from a predetermined area of the RAM (S308a).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is set to ON (whether or not the fluctuation time shortening function is operating) (S308b). As a result, if it is determined that the variation shortening flag is set to ON (the variation time shortening function is activated) (S308b: YES), the normal symbol success / failure determination is performed in a high probability state (S308c). . On the other hand, if it is determined that the variation shortening flag is not set to ON (the variation time shortening function is not activated) (S308b: NO), the normal symbol success / failure determination is performed in a low probability state (S308d). Since the setting states of the fluctuation shortening flag and the release extension flag are the same, the determination processing in S308b determines whether the release extension flag is set to ON instead of the fluctuation shortening flag (open time extension function). It may be determined whether or not is operating.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the determination result of the normal symbol success / failure determination performed in S308c or S308d is a win (S308e). As a result, when it is determined that the determination result of normal symbol win / fail determination is winning (S308e: YES), the winning symbol is set as a stop symbol of the normal symbol (S308f). On the other hand, when it is determined that the result of the normal symbol success / failure determination is not a hit (deletion) (S308e: NO), the out symbol is set as a stop symbol of the normal symbol (S308g).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special fluctuation flag is set to ON (whether or not it is during the special fluctuation period) (S308h). The “special variation flag” is a flag indicating a special variation period, and is set to ON in the process of S610d described later.

  As a result of the determination process of S308h, when it is determined that the special variation flag is set to ON (during the special variation period) (S308h: YES), the variation time for special variation (normal variation time) In this embodiment, 120 seconds) is set (S308i). Thus, when the special fluctuation flag is set to ON, regardless of whether or not the opening time extension function and the fluctuation time reduction function are activated (even if the opening time extension function and the fluctuation time reduction function are in operation). Ordinarily, the symbols vary specially.

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination processing in S308h, if it is determined that the special variation flag is not set to ON (not in the special variation period) (S308h: NO), whether or not the variation reduction flag is set to ON. Is determined (S308j). As a result, when it is determined that the variation shortening flag is set to ON (S308j: YES), the variation time for shortening variation (1 second in this embodiment) is set as the variation time of the normal symbol (S308k). ). On the other hand, when it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not set to ON (S308j: NO), the fluctuation time for normal fluctuation (30 seconds in this embodiment) is set as the fluctuation time of the normal symbol (S308l). .

  Next, the change of the normal symbol is started (S308m), and the normal symbol holding number is subtracted by 1 (S308n). The processing up to this point is to start the normal symbol variation display.

  Next, returning to FIG. 5, if it is determined in the process of S305 that the normal symbol is changing (S305: YES), it is determined whether or not the normal symbol change time has elapsed (S309). If it is determined that the normal symbol variation time has not elapsed (S309: NO), the normal symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal symbol variation time has elapsed (S309: YES), the normal symbol variation is stopped (S310), and the normal symbol stop display time is set (S311).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the normal symbol stop display time has elapsed (S312). If it is determined that the normal symbol stop display time has not elapsed (S312: NO), the normal symbol game processing is performed. Exit. On the other hand, if it is determined that the normal symbol stop display time has elapsed (S312: YES), the normal symbol stop symbol is a hit symbol that activates (opens) the second start port 28b. It is determined whether or not there is (S313). As a result, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the normal symbol is not a winning symbol (S313: NO), the normal symbol game process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the stop symbol of the normal symbol is a winning symbol (S313: YES), whether or not the release extension flag is set to ON (whether or not the release time extension function is activated). Is determined (S314). As a result, when the release extension flag is ON (when the release time extension function is activated) (S314: YES), a long-time release pattern (for example, 5 seconds) is set as the release pattern of the second start port 28b. If the release extension flag is OFF (when the release time extension function is not activated) (S314: NO), a short-time release pattern (for example, 0.2) is set as the release pattern of the second start port 28b. Second) is set (S316). Then, the operation of the second start port 28b is started (S317). As a result, the pair of blade pieces are opened left and right, and the second start port 28b is opened.

  Next, the ordinary electric accessory game process (S400) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the second start port 28b is operating (opening operation), that is, whether or not it is in an open state (S401). As a result, when it is determined that the second start port 28b is not in operation (is in a closed state) (S401: NO), the ordinary electric accessory game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the second start port 28b is in operation (in an open state) (S401: YES), it is determined whether or not the operation time (open time) of the second start port 28b has elapsed. If it is determined (S402) and it is determined that the operating time of the second start port 28b has not elapsed (S402: NO), whether or not a predetermined number of winnings has been won at the second start port 28b (specified number) It is determined whether or not a game ball has entered (S403).

  As a result, when it is determined that there is no predetermined number of winnings in the second starting port 28b (S403: NO), the ordinary electric accessory game process is terminated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined number of winnings has been won at the second starting port 28b (S403: YES), and when it is determined that the operating time (opening time) of the second starting port 28b has elapsed. (S402: YES), the operation of the second start port 28b is stopped (S404). When the operation of the second start port 28b is stopped, the pair of blade pieces are closed, and the second start port 28b is in a closed state (normal state).

  Next, the special symbol game process (S500) will be described based on the flowcharts of FIGS. First, as shown in FIG. 8A, it is determined whether or not a winning (game ball has entered) is made at the starting port 28 (the first starting port 28a or the second starting port 28b) (S501). If it is determined that the player has not won 28 (S501: NO). The process proceeds to S504. On the other hand, if it is determined that the start port 28 has been won (S501: YES), it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol reservations is less than 4 (S502). As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is not less than 4 (4 or more) (S502: NO), the process proceeds to S504, where it is determined that the number of special symbol reservations is less than 4. In this case (S502: YES), a special symbol random number is acquired and stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S503). Thereby, the number of special symbol reservation increases by one. The special symbol random number includes a special symbol success / failure determination random number, a special symbol hitting symbol determination random number, a reach random number, and the like.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the jackpot game is being played (whether or not the jackpot game flag is ON) (S504). As a result, if it is determined that the game is a hit game (the jackpot game flag is ON) (S504: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated, and the jackpot game is not played (the jackpot game flag is OFF). ) (S504: NO), it is determined whether or not the special symbol is changing (S505).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol is changing (S505: YES), the process proceeds to S509 described later, and when it is determined that the special symbol is not changing (S505: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not it is during the special symbol stop display time (S506). Here, the stop display time of the special symbol is a time for determining the special symbol stopped and displayed. In this embodiment, the stop display time of the special symbol is “1 second”. If it is determined that it is during the special symbol stop display time (S506: YES), the process proceeds to S513 described later, and if it is determined that it is not during the special symbol stop display time (S506). : NO), it is determined whether or not the number of special symbol hold is zero (S507).

  As a result, when it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is zero (S507: YES), the special symbol game process is terminated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of special symbol hold is not zero (S507: NO), special symbol variation display related processing is performed (S508).

  Here, the special symbol variation display related processing (S508) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, a random number for determining whether or not the special symbol is stored in a predetermined area (holding storage area) of the RAM of the main control unit 200 (a random number for determining whether or not the game ball has entered the start opening 28) is read (S508a). ).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is set to ON (whether or not the probability variation function is activated) (S508b). As a result, when it is determined that the probability variation flag is set to ON (the probability variation function is activated) (S508b: YES), the special symbol success / failure determination is performed in a high probability state (S508c). On the other hand, if it is determined that the probability variation flag is not set to ON (the probability variation function is not activated) (S508b: NO), the special symbol success / failure determination is performed in a low probability state (S508d).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the result of the special symbol success / failure determination performed in S508c or S508d is a big hit (S508e). As a result, if it is determined that the result of the special symbol win / fail determination is a big hit (S508e: YES), a special symbol fluctuation pattern table is set by the big hit hour fluctuation pattern table distribution process (S508f). On the other hand, if it is determined that the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is not a big hit (ie, it is out of place) (S508e: NO), it is determined whether or not it is out of reach with reach fluctuation (S508g).

  As a result, when it is determined that the deviation is accompanied by reach fluctuation (S508g: YES), the fluctuation pattern table of the special symbol is set by the fluctuation pattern table distribution process when the reach is lost (S508h). On the other hand, if it is determined that the deviation is not accompanied by reach fluctuation (S508g: NO), a fluctuation pattern table of a special symbol is set by the fluctuation pattern table distribution process at the time of deviation without reach (S508i). The big hit time variation pattern table distribution processing (S508f), the reach-less variation pattern table distribution processing (S508h), and the non-reach variation pattern table distribution processing (S508h) have the same contents, respectively. This will be collectively described as the variation pattern table distribution process (S550).

  Here, the special symbol variation pattern table distribution processing (S550) will be described with reference to FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the special variation flag is set to ON (whether or not it is during a special variation period) (S551). As a result, when it is determined that the special variation flag is set to ON (during the special variation period) (S551: YES), the variation pattern table for special variation is set (S552). On the other hand, if it is determined that the special variation flag is not set to ON (not during the special variation period) (S551: NO), whether or not the probability variation flag is set to ON (the probability variation function is activated). Whether or not) is determined (S553).

  As a result, if it is determined that the probability variation flag is set to ON (the probability variation function is activated) (S553: YES), the probability variation pattern table is set (S554). On the other hand, when it is determined that the probability variation flag is not set to ON (the probability variation function is not activated) (S553: NO), whether or not the variation shortening flag is set to ON (variation time shortening). It is determined whether or not the function is operating (S555).

  As a result, when it is determined that the variation shortening flag is set to ON (the variation time shortening function is activated) (S555: YES), the time variation variation pattern table is set (S556). On the other hand, when it is determined that the variation shortening flag is not set to ON (the variation time shortening function is not activated) (S555: NO), the variation pattern table for normal variation is set (S557).

  As described above, the relationship of the variation time length of the special symbol defined by the variation pattern included in each variation pattern table is: variation pattern for probability variation = variation pattern for time reduction <variation pattern for special variation <normal variation It is a pattern.

  Next, returning to FIG. 9, the fluctuation pattern determination random number is acquired (S508j), and is acquired in the process of S508j from the fluctuation patterns defined by the fluctuation pattern table set in any of the processes of S508f, S508h, and S508i. The variation pattern corresponding to the variation pattern determination random number is selected, and the variation pattern in the variation display of the special symbol starting from now is determined (S508k).

  Next, the random number for symbol determination (the special symbol determination random number acquired when the game ball enters the start port 28) stored in a predetermined area of the RAM of the main control unit 200 is read (S508l), and the special symbol display is performed. The stop symbol of the special symbol displayed on the part 61 is determined (S508m).

  Next, according to the variation pattern determined by the process of S508k and the stop symbol determined by the process of S508m, the special symbol display unit 61 starts the variation display of the special symbol (S508n). Then, a variation pattern designation command for designating a special symbol variation pattern and a special symbol stop information designation command for designating a special symbol stop symbol are transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S508o), and the number of special symbol reservations is decremented by one. (S508p). When the sub control unit 260 receives the variation pattern designation command and the special figure stop information designation command transmitted in the process of S508o, the sub control unit 260 starts the symbol variation effect (the variation display of the effect symbol) together with the effect display control unit 280. To do. The processing up to this point is when the special symbol variation display is started.

  Next, returning to FIG. 8A, if it is determined in S505 that the special symbol is changing (S505: YES), whether or not the changing display time of the changing special symbol has elapsed. Is determined (S509). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol variation display time has not elapsed (S509: NO), it is determined that the special symbol game processing is terminated and the special symbol variation display time has elapsed. In this case (S509: YES), the special symbol variation display is stopped (S510), and a special symbol variation command indicating that the special symbol variation display is stopped is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S511). A stop display time is set (S512).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed (S513). As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has not elapsed (S513: NO), the special symbol game processing is terminated and it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol display time has elapsed. If it is determined (S513: YES), it is determined whether or not the stop symbol of the special symbol stopped and displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is a big hit symbol (S514 in FIG. 8B).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special symbol stop symbol is a big hit symbol (S514: YES), the current gaming state is stored in a predetermined area of the RAM (S515). “Current gaming status” includes the type of jackpot symbol, gaming status flags (probability variation flag, variation shortening flag, release extension flag, special variation flag) setting status and various counters (variation shortening counter, special variation counter) status It is included.

  Next, the opening pattern of the big winning opening 33a is set (S516), and the big hit game flag is set to ON (S517). Thereby, the big hit game is started in accordance with the big winning opening opening pattern set in the process of S516.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the probability variation flag is ON (S518). If it is determined that the probability variation flag is ON (S518: YES), the probability variation flag is set to OFF (S519). Transition to processing. On the other hand, when it is determined that the probability variation flag is not ON (S518: NO), the process proceeds to S520 as it is.

  In the process of S520, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON. If it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is not ON (S520: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated as it is. On the other hand, if it is determined that the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S520: YES), the fluctuation shortening flag is set to OFF (S521), and further the release extension flag is set to OFF (S522). Thereby, with the start of the big hit game, the probability variation function, the variation time shortening function, and the open time extension function stop operating.

  Next, in the determination process of S514, when it is determined that the special symbol stopped symbol displayed on the special symbol display unit 61 is not a big hit symbol (in other words, it is a miss symbol) (S514: NO). Then, it is determined whether or not the special variation flag is set to ON (whether or not it is during the special variation period) (S523).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special variation flag is not set to ON (not during the special variation period) (S523: NO), the process proceeds to S528. On the other hand, if it is determined that the special variation flag is set to ON (during the special variation period) (S523: YES), the special variation counter is decremented by 1 (S524), and the special variation counter is set to zero. It is determined whether or not (S525).

  As a result, when it is determined that the special variation counter is not zero (S525: NO), the process proceeds to S528. On the other hand, when it is determined that the special fluctuation counter has become zero (S525: YES), the special fluctuation flag is set to OFF (S526). Thereby, the special variation period ends. Then, a gaming state designation command indicating the current gaming state is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S527). The gaming state designation command is a command for designating a symbol variation state (special variation, shortening variation, normal variation) based on the state of the gaming state flag (special variation flag, probability variation flag, variation shortening flag, release extension flag). . Here, a gaming state designation command indicating that the special variation period has ended is transmitted. Then, the sub-control unit 260 (CPU 260b) performs a state notification effect indicating the current gaming state based on the gaming state designation command transmitted from the main control unit 200. As the state notification effect, in the background display area of the display screen of the effect display device 25, the current game state (game mode) is shown using characters, figures, symbols, characters, changes in display color (background color), and the like. For example, the effect display can be performed.

  As described above, the execution period of the special variation period is defined by the number of executions of the special symbol variation display (the number of special symbol variation displays). Also, if the fluctuation time based on the special symbol fluctuation pattern (variation pattern for special fluctuation) during the special fluctuation period is long, the execution period of the special fluctuation period will be longer, and conversely if it is short, the special fluctuation will be The execution period of the period becomes longer. That is, the length of the execution period of the special variation period depends on the number of executions of the special symbol variation display and the variation display time. In the present embodiment, a game state in which the opening frequency of the second start port 28b is “intermediate level” in the effect display device 25 (effect design display unit 25a) using the execution period of such special variation. A state notification effect indicating that the game mode is in effect.

  Next, returning to FIG. 8B, it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening flag is ON (S528). As a result, when it is determined that the variation shortening flag is not ON (S528: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and when it is determined that the variation shortening flag is ON (S528: YES), the variation shortening is performed. The counter is decremented by 1 (S529), and it is determined whether or not the fluctuation shortening counter has become zero (S530). The fluctuation shortening counter is for counting the operating period of the fluctuation time shortening function and the opening time extending function, and is set in the process of S610h (see FIG. 12) described later according to the type of jackpot after the jackpot game ends. The

  If it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is not zero (S530: NO), the special symbol game process is terminated, and if it is determined that the fluctuation shortening counter is zero (S530: YES), The fluctuation shortening flag is turned off (S531), and the open extension flag is turned off (S532). As a result, the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function are deactivated. Then, a gaming state designation command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S533). Here, the game time designation command indicating that the change time shortening function and the open time extension function are deactivated and the transition from the shortened change state to the normal change state is transmitted.

  Next, the jackpot game process (S600) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, it is determined whether or not the jackpot game is being played (whether or not the jackpot game flag is ON) (S601). As a result, when it is determined that the jackpot game is not being played (the jackpot game flag is OFF) (S601: NO), the jackpot game process is terminated and the jackpot game is being played (the jackpot game flag is ON). Is determined (S601: YES), it is determined whether or not the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S602). As a result, when it is determined that the special winning opening 33a is being opened (S602: YES), it is determined whether or not the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603), and the special winning opening 33a is determined. When it is determined that the opening time has not elapsed (S603: NO), it is determined whether or not the specified winning number 33a has been won (whether or not the specified number of game balls have entered). (S604). In the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not ten game balls have entered the special winning opening 33a.

  As a result, if it is determined that the prescribed number of winnings has not been won in the big winning opening 33a (S604: NO), the jackpot game processing is terminated and the prescribed winning number has been won in the big winning opening 33a. When it is determined (S604: YES) or when it is determined that the opening time of the special winning opening 33a has elapsed (S603: YES), the special winning opening 33a is closed (S605).

  If it is determined in S602 that the special winning opening 33a is not being opened (S602: NO), it is determined whether or not the big hit game ending condition is satisfied (S606). The determination process of S606 determines whether the number of rounds of the big hit game has reached 15 rounds if the currently big hit game is the first big hit game, and the currently executed big hit game is the second big hit game If so, it is determined whether or not the number of rounds of the big hit game has reached two.

  As a result, when it is determined that the big hit game ending condition is not satisfied (S606: NO), it is determined whether or not the closing time (interval time) of the big winning opening 33a has passed (S607), When it is determined that the closing time of the big prize opening 33a has not elapsed (S607: NO), the big hit game process is terminated, and it is determined that the closing time of the big prize opening 33a has elapsed. (S607: YES), the special winning opening 33a is opened (S608).

  If it is determined in S606 that the big hit game end condition is satisfied (S606: YES), the big hit game end process is performed (S610). Here, the big hit game end process (S610) will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  In the big hit game end process (S610), first, the big hit game flag is set to OFF (S610a). As a result, the big hit game ends.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the current big hit is a probable big hit (whether or not the special symbol stop symbol that triggered the start of the current big hit game is a probable big hit symbol) (S610b). As a result, when it is determined that the probability variation is a big hit (S610b: YES), the probability variation flag is set to ON (S610c). Thereby, with the end of the big hit game related to the current probability big hit, the probability variation function starts to operate (becomes a high probability state).

  Next, the special fluctuation flag is set to ON (S610d), and a predetermined value N is set to the special fluctuation counter (S610e). Thereby, the period from the end of the big hit game until the number of fluctuations of the special symbol reaches N is set as the special fluctuation period. As described above, any value selected from “500”, “200”, “100”, “70”, “50”, and “30” is set in “predetermined value N”. In this embodiment, the special variation counter is newly set every time the big hit game is finished. As the “predetermined value N”, a different value may be set every time, or the same value may be set every time.

  Next, the fluctuation shortening flag is set ON (S610f), the open extension flag is set ON (S610g), and "10,000" is set in the fluctuation shortening counter (S610h). As a result, the variable time shortening function and the open time extending function start to operate.

  Then, the gaming state designation command is transmitted to the sub-control unit 260 (S610h). Here, a gaming state designation command indicating that the special variation period starts is transmitted.

  Here, the correspondence between the processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 to 12 and each means of the present invention will be described. “Processing in S308c and S308d (FIG. 6)” corresponds to the normal symbol validity determination execution means. “S308e to S308m, S309, S310 (FIGS. 5 and 6)” corresponds to the normal symbol display control means, and “S508c, S508d processing (FIG. 9)” corresponds to the special symbol success / failure determination execution means. "S508e to S508n, S509, S510 (FIGS. 8A, 9)" corresponds to the special symbol display control means, and "S601 to S608 (FIG. 11)" corresponds to the big hit game execution means. Correspondingly, “processing of S529, S530, S610h (FIG. 8B, FIG. 12)” corresponds to the first counting means, and “processing of S524, S525, S610e (FIG. 8B, FIG. 12)”. Corresponding to the second counting means, “S314, S315, S610g processing (FIGS. 5 and 12)” corresponds to the open time extension means, and “S308l processing (FIG. 6)” corresponds to the normal symbol normal variation means. “S308i processing (FIG. 6)” corresponds to the normal symbol special variation means, and “S308k processing (FIG. 6)” corresponds to the normal symbol shortening variation means.

  In the present embodiment described above, until the end of the jackpot game, the normal normal variation game (normal variation period) in which the opening frequency of the second start port 28b is the lowest level is performed, and the end of the jackpot game is an opportunity. A special-purpose variable game (special variable period) in which the opening frequency of the second start port 28b is an intermediate level is performed, and after the elapse of the special variable period, a short-time game of normal time with the highest frequency of opening the second start port 28b ( (Shortening variation period). As described above, by providing the special variation period in which the special variation of the normal symbol is performed after the big hit game is completed, it is possible to create a three-stage gaming state in which the opening frequency of the second start port 28b is different. Then, the opening frequency of the second start port 28b is improved by the end of the big hit game (becomes an intermediate level), and the special fluctuation period is ended, so that the so-called ceiling is reached, and the opening frequency of the second start port 28b is increased. It is possible to provide new game characteristics such as the highest level, and to improve the game entertainment.

  In the present embodiment, since the special symbol variation time (120 seconds) is set to be longer than the normal variation variation time (30 seconds), the opening frequency of the second start port 28b is different. Three stages (lowest level, intermediate level, highest level) can be created effectively.

  In particular, at the intermediate level, the opening time of the second start port 28b is equivalent to the maximum level, but since the fluctuation display time of the normal symbol is longer than the maximum level, the frequency at which the second start port 28b is opened. The (number of times) is lower than the maximum level, and the frequency of entering the game ball into the second start port 28b does not become as high as the maximum level. Further, at the intermediate level, although the fluctuation display time of the normal symbol is longer than the minimum level, the opening time of the second start port 28b is longer than the minimum level, so the frequency at which the second start port 28b is in the open state. The (number of times) is higher than the lowest level, and the frequency of entering the game ball into the second start port 28b is higher than the lowest level. Thus, in the present embodiment, the difference between each of the three stages (the lowest level, the intermediate level, and the highest level) with different opening frequencies of the second start port 28b can be clarified for the player. Then, after the start of the special variation period, the player can easily recognize the change related to the normal symbol variation display, and can easily recognize the change in the opening state of the second start port 28b. It is possible to effectively impress the player that the game has shifted from the normal variation game to the normal special variation game.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Description of the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be omitted, and only different parts will be described.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the big hit game end process of the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 12 of the first embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 13, in the big hit game end process of the second embodiment, whether or not the current big hit is the first big hit after the game starts after the special fluctuation flag is set to ON in the process of S610d. Is determined (S610j). Here, the “first big hit” is a big hit (so-called “so-called big hit”) that occurs when both the special fluctuation flag and the fluctuation reduction flag are set to OFF (special fluctuation counter = “0”, fluctuation reduction counter = “0”). "First hit").

  As a result of the determination processing in S610j, when it is determined that the current big hit is the first big hit (S610j: YES), a predetermined value N is set in the special variation counter (S610e). On the other hand, if it is determined that the current big hit is not the first big hit (the second or subsequent big hit) (S610j: NO), the process proceeds to S610f without setting the predetermined value N in the special variation counter. To do.

  According to the configuration of the second embodiment described above, the special variation counter is set only when the first big hit occurs, so the value of the special variation counter gradually decreases as the game progresses. If a big hit occurs in the middle of the special fluctuation period (special fluctuation counter> “0” state), when the big hit game executed due to the big hit ends, the previous special fluctuation counter The value is carried over. For example, when the big hit game executed due to the first big hit, the special fluctuation counter is set to “200” and the special fluctuation counter becomes “100” (after the start of the special fluctuation period, the special symbol If the second big hit occurs when the number of fluctuations reaches 100), the special fluctuation period for the second time will be set with the special fluctuation counter set to “100” at the end of the second big hit game. Start.

  And after the start of the second special fluctuation period, when the special symbol is zero until the special symbol fluctuation display count reaches 100 times, and the special fluctuation counter becomes zero, the special fluctuation period ends. (A so-called ceiling is reached), the normal symbol shortening variation is started, and the opening frequency of the second start port 28b becomes the highest level. After that, when the third big hit occurs, the special fluctuation counter is zero at the end of the third big hit game, so the special fluctuation period is not set (special fluctuation counter = “0”, fluctuation shortening counter) = "10,000"). For this reason, the normal symbol shortening variation is started immediately after the end of the big hit game without the special symbol special variation.

  In this way, by taking over the value of the previous special variation counter, at the end of the second big hit game, the special variation counter is started with a small value (or zero) in the special variation counter. Thereby, as the game progresses, the special variation period ends in a short period, so that the so-called ceiling arrival can be accelerated, and the shortened variation of the normal symbol is started at an early stage so that the second start port 28b It is possible to achieve a game with the highest opening frequency.

(Other embodiments)
As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to this, Unless it deviates from the range described in each claim, it is not limited to the description word of each claim, and those skilled in the art Improvements based on the knowledge that a person skilled in the art normally has can be added as appropriate to the extent that they can be easily replaced.

  For example, in each of the above embodiments, the normal symbol success / failure determination is performed in a low probability state when the open time extension function is not operated, and the normal symbol success / failure determination is performed in a high probability state when the open time extension function is operated. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and can also be applied to a gaming machine in which the winning probability of the normal symbol success / failure determination is set constant. In this case, the winning probability of the normal symbol success / failure determination adopts the winning probability of the normal symbol success / failure determination in the high probability state among the low probability state and the high probability state described in the above embodiments as a constant winning probability. Is preferred. That is, the winning probability of the normal symbol success / failure determination when the open time extension function is not activated and activated can be set to “86/89”.

  However, in this case, it is necessary to set the fluctuation time of the normal symbol in the normal normal fluctuation game when the opening time extension function is inactive to a long time such as “180 seconds”. In this way, in the normal figure normal variation game, even if the winning probability of the normal symbol success / failure determination is high, the frequency of the normal symbol variation display result (frequency that the winning symbol or the off symbol is stopped and displayed) is low, Since the opening time of the second starting port 28b is also set to a short time (for example, 0.2 seconds), as a result, the opening frequency of the second starting port 28b can be lowered (minimum level).

  Then, in the special special variation game in which the opening frequency of the second start port 28b is “intermediate level” higher than that in the normal variation game, the normal symbol variation time is set to the same time as the normal variation game (for example, 180). Second) or shorter than the normal game, and longer than the normal game (for example, 120 seconds), and the opening time of the second start port 28b is set to a long time (for example, 5 seconds). Thus, the opening frequency of the second start port 28b can be set to an “intermediate level” higher than that of the normal variation game. Further, in a normal time short game where the opening frequency of the second start port 28b is “highest level” higher than that of the special figure special game, the normal symbol change time is set to the same time as the normal time short game of each of the above embodiments. (For example, 1 second), and the opening time of the second starting port 28b is set to a long time (for example, 5 seconds), the opening frequency of the second starting port 28b is set to the “highest level” that is higher than that of the usual special variation game. can do. As a result, even when the winning probability of the normal symbol success / failure determination is constant, the opening frequency of the second start port 28b can be varied in three stages (the lowest level, the intermediate level, and the highest level).

  In each of the above embodiments, the variation shortening counter and the special variation counter are configured to be set at the end of the big hit game. However, the present invention is not limited to this. A special variation counter may be set.

  In each of the above embodiments, the special symbol variation time (120 seconds) is set to be longer than the normal variation variation time (30 seconds). However, the present invention is not limited to this. The variation time only needs to be set longer than at least the variation time for shortening variation (1 second), and the variation time for special variation may be set to be shorter than the variation time for normal variation.

  In each of the above embodiments, the fluctuation shortening counter is set to “10,000”, and the opening time extension function or the like is operated until the next big hit game is substantially started. First, the fluctuation shortening counter is larger than the value set in the special fluctuation counter (in the above embodiment, any one of “500”, “200”, “100”, “70”, “50”, “30”). Then, it is not necessary to set “10,000”. In particular, in the configuration in which the value of the special variation counter is inherited as in the second embodiment, when the special variation counter becomes zero, when the variation shortening counter is set to “10,000”, the open time extension function, etc. Therefore, it is desirable to set a value smaller than “10,000” (for example, “100”) to the fluctuation shortening counter at least when the special fluctuation counter becomes zero.

  In each of the above embodiments, as the big hit game ends, a predetermined value is set in each of the fluctuation shortening counter and the special fluctuation counter, and each time the special symbol fluctuation display is performed once, each counter is decremented by one. Thus, the operation (counting) of each counter is terminated when the value of each counter becomes zero. However, the counter is not limited to such a subtraction counter, and may be an addition counter. That is, an upper limit value counted (counted) by the variation shortening counter and an upper limit value counted (counted) by the special variation counter are determined in advance (for example, “10,000” for the variation shortening counter and “500” for the special variation counter). , “200”, “100”, “70”, “50”, “30”), after the end of the big hit game, start the operation (counting) of the variation shortening counter and special variation counter, special symbols Each time the fluctuation display is performed once, each counter is incremented by one, and when each counter value reaches the above-mentioned upper limit value, the operation (counting) of each counter is terminated. May be.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game machine, 20 ... Game board, 28 ... Start-up opening, 51 ... Normal symbol display part, 200 ... Main control part (Normal symbol determination judgment execution means, Normal symbol display control means, Special symbol determination judgment execution means, Special symbol) Display control means, jackpot game execution means, counter means, opening time extension means, normal symbol normal variation means, normal symbol special variation means, normal symbol shortening variation means), 260... Sub-control unit, 280.

Claims (2)

Normal symbol success / failure determination execution means for executing normal symbol success / failure determination triggered by detection of a game ball flowing down on the game board surface;
When the normal symbol success / failure determination is executed, the normal symbol is variably displayed on the normal symbol display unit. If the result of the normal symbol success / failure determination is a win, normal symbol display control means for stopping and displaying the normal symbol as a hit normal symbol;
Playing ball and ball entrance difficult the normal state, the gaming ball is changeable into a ball entrance easy open, if the said normal symbol at normal symbol display unit stopped and displayed in the per normal symbol, the A starting port that changes to the open state over an hour ;
Special symbol success / failure determination execution means for executing special symbol success / failure determination triggered by the game ball entering the start opening;
When the special symbol success / failure determination is executed, the special symbol display unit variably displays the special symbol.If the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is out, the special symbol is removed and the special symbol is stopped and displayed. When the result of the special symbol success / failure determination is a big hit, special symbol display control means for stopping and displaying the special symbol at the big hit special symbol;
When the special symbol is stopped and displayed at the jackpot special symbol, a jackpot game executing means for starting a jackpot game advantageous to the player;
A first counting means for counting a first predetermined value by counting the number of times the special symbol is changed and displayed following the end of the jackpot game;
Second counting means for counting a second predetermined value smaller than the first predetermined value by counting the number of times the special symbol is changed and displayed following the end of the jackpot game;
An opening time extension means for setting the opening time of the start port to a second time longer than the first time until the first predetermined value is counted by the first counting means after the end of the big hit game;
Normal symbol normal variation means for variably displaying the normal symbol with a variation time for normal variation when counting by the first counting unit and counting by the second counting unit are not performed;
Normal symbol special variation means for variably displaying the normal symbol in a variation time for special variation until the second predetermined value is counted by the second counting device after the big hit game is ended;
After the counting by the second counting means is completed, the normal symbol is shortened to be shorter than the normal fluctuation fluctuation time and the special fluctuation fluctuation time until the first predetermined value is counted by the first counting means. And a normal symbol shortening variation means for varying display for a variation time for use,
When the counting by the first counting means and the counting by the second counting means are not performed, it becomes a big hit, and when the big hit game is started, the counting by the first counting means and the first The counting by the two counting means is started from the initial value,
The counting by the first counting means and the counting by the second counting means are performed, and the count value by the second counting means becomes a big hit before reaching the second predetermined value, and the big hit game is started. After the jackpot game is over, the counting by the second counting means is started continuously from the count value by the second counting means at the start time of the jackpot game, and the first counting means Counting from the initial value,
When the counting by the first counting means is performed and the count value by the second counting means reaches the second predetermined value, a big hit is made, and when the big hit game is started, after the big hit game is finished , it said that the second without performing counting by the counting means and the counting by the first counting means is started from the initial value, setting the reduced variation for varying time without setting the variable time for special variation A gaming machine characterized by   The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the special variation variation time is set to a variation time longer than the normal variation variation time.

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